The velociraptor is a genus of dromaeosaurids that existed approximately 75 to 71 million years ago, during the later part of the Cretaceous Period. It was a bipedal, feathered carnivore with a long, stiffened tail and an enlarged sickle-shaped claw on each hind foot, which was most likely used to kill its prey. The velociraptor can be distinguished from other dromaeosaurids by its long and low skull, with an upturned snout.